Stent Placement: A Life-Saving Procedure Explained

Understanding Stent Placement

Stent placement is a widely used medical procedure designed to open blocked or narrowed arteries, improving blood flow to the heart and other parts of the body. This life-saving procedure is commonly performed as part of angioplasty in Pune, a treatment for coronary artery disease (CAD).

Dr. Tanmay S Kulkarni, a renowned cardiologist in Pune, specializes in advanced stent placement techniques to help patients regain their heart health and prevent life-threatening complications such as heart attacks and strokes.

Why is Stent Placement Needed?

Stent placement is primarily used to treat blockages in the coronary arteries caused by plaque buildup (atherosclerosis). The condition restricts blood flow to the heart, leading to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and an increased risk of heart attack. A heart specialist in Pune, like Dr. Tanmay S Kulkarni, may recommend a stent placement procedure in the following situations:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD): Narrowed arteries due to plaque deposits.
  
• Acute myocardial infarction (Heart attack): A stent can quickly restore blood flow.
  
• Chronic stable angina: Persistent chest pain that does not respond to medication.
  
• Peripheral artery disease (PAD): Blocked arteries in the limbs.
  
• Carotid artery disease: Blockage in the arteries supplying blood to the brain.
  
• Renal artery stenosis: Narrowed arteries in the kidneys.

How is Stent Placement Performed?

1. Pre-Procedure Evaluation

Before undergoing stent placement, patients undergo a thorough assessment, including:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  
• Echocardiogram
  
• Blood tests
  
• Angiography to identify blockages
  

Dr. Tanmay S Kulkarni, a leading heart specialist in Pune, ensures a detailed evaluation to determine the necessity and safety of the procedure for each patient.

2. The Stent Placement Procedure

The procedure involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia & Sedation: The patient receives local anesthesia and mild sedation.
   
2. Catheter Insertion: A thin catheter is inserted through an artery in the groin or wrist.
   
3. Guiding the Stent: A balloon-tipped catheter with a stent is guided to the blockage.
   
4. Balloon Inflation: The balloon expands, pushing the plaque against the artery walls and opening the artery.
   
5. Stent Deployment: The stent remains in place to keep the artery open.
   
6. Final Check & Removal: The balloon is deflated and removed, leaving the stent permanently in the artery.

The procedure typically takes 30 to 90 minutes, and most patients are discharged within a day.

Types of Stents Used in Angioplasty

During angioplasty in Pune, different types of stents may be used, including:

• Bare-metal stents (BMS): A simple metal mesh tube that supports the artery.
  
• Drug-eluting stents (DES): Coated with medication to prevent re-narrowing.
  
• Bioresorbable stents: Dissolve over time, leaving no permanent implant.
  

Dr. Tanmay S Kulkarni selects the most appropriate stent based on the patient’s condition and medical history.

Recovery After Stent Placement

 

Immediate Post-Procedure Care

• Patients are monitored for a few hours after the procedure.
  
• Mild discomfort at the catheter insertion site may occur.
  
• Medications such as blood thinners are prescribed to prevent clotting.
  

Long-Term Recovery & Lifestyle Changes

To maintain optimal heart health after stent placement, patients should:

• Take prescribed medications regularly.
  
• Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
  
• Exercise regularly under medical supervision.
  
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.
  
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques.

Benefits of Stent Placement

1. Restores Blood Flow

Stents ensure uninterrupted blood supply, reducing symptoms such as chest pain and fatigue.

2. Minimally Invasive

Unlike open-heart surgery, angioplasty in Pune with stent placement requires only a small incision, leading to faster recovery and minimal scarring.

3. Reduces Risk of Heart Attack

By keeping arteries open, stents significantly lower the chances of future heart attacks and other cardiovascular complications.

4. Improves Quality of Life

Patients experience improved stamina, reduced chest pain, and better overall heart function.

Risks and Complications

While stent placement is generally safe, potential risks include:

• Blood Clots: Prevented with blood-thinning medications.
  
• Re-narrowing of Arteries: Drug-eluting stents help reduce this risk.
  
• Bleeding at the Catheter Site: Usually minor and self-limiting.
  
• Allergic Reactions: Rare but possible due to stent material or medications.
  

Dr. Tanmay S Kulkarni takes all necessary precautions to minimize complications and ensure the best outcomes for his patients.

Why Choose Dr. Tanmay S Kulkarni for Stent Placement in Pune?

Dr. Tanmay S Kulkarni is a highly experienced cardiologist in Pune, specializing in stent placement and angioplasty in Pune. Here’s why he is the preferred choice for patients:

• Expertise in Interventional Cardiology: Specializing in complex heart procedures.
  
• State-of-the-Art Facility: Equipped with advanced technology for precise treatments.
  
• Personalized Care: Customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.
  
• Proven Success Record: High success rates and positive patient outcomes.
  
• Comprehensive Post-Treatment Support: Guidance on lifestyle changes and long-term heart care.
  

Conclusion

Stent placement is a highly effective and life-saving procedure that restores normal blood flow, reduces heart attack risk, and improves quality of life. If you or a loved one requires expert heart specialist in Pune, consult Dr. Tanmay S Kulkarni today for world-class angioplasty in Pune and advanced cardiac care.

📞 Call us at +91 8551913753 to book an appointment.
🌐 Visit: www.drtanmaykulkarni.com